Uganda's military has suspended all defense and military cooperation with Turkey, effective immediately. The decision was announced by army spokesman Chris Magezi, who stated that the measure will remain in force until outstanding issues between the two countries are resolved. The move comes amid strained relations between the two nations, fueled by Turkey's refusal to extradite a prominent Ugandan political blogger.
The suspended cooperation includes military training, arms and surveillance equipment, technology transfers, and joint efforts on counter-terrorism and security. The two countries have maintained close defense ties for nearly a decade. However, tensions escalated over the case of Fred Lumbuye, a vocal critic of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who faces 15 criminal charges, including incitement to violence and spreading false information.
Army chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Museveni's son and likely successor, has been at the forefront of the push for Lumbuye's extradition. Kainerugaba has repeatedly clashed with Turkish authorities over the case. On Friday, thousands of Ugandans affiliated with the Patriotic League of Uganda, a civic and political pressure group associated with Muhoozi, protested outside the Turkish embassy in Kampala.
The Ugandan government's move is not limited to military cooperation. There are also threats to cancel a $3 billion railways contract with Turkish firm Yapi Merkezi and to expel Turkish nationals from Uganda. These measures indicate a significant escalation of the diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
The relationship between Uganda and Turkey has been strained in recent times, with both countries having previously enjoyed close ties. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni have met on several occasions, including a notable visit to State House in Entebbe in June 2016.
The extradition demand for Lumbuye has been a major point of contention. The blogger is a fierce critic of President Museveni and has been charged with various offenses, including incitement to violence and computer misuse. Turkey's refusal to hand him over has been met with frustration from the Ugandan government and its supporters.
The suspension of military cooperation and potential cancellation of the railways contract have significant implications for Uganda's defense and infrastructure development. The situation remains fluid, with both countries yet to indicate a willingness to compromise on the issues at hand. The international community is watching closely, as the tensions between Uganda and Turkey continue to unfold.
Key points
- Uganda suspends military cooperation with Turkey over extradition demands and political tensions.
- The suspension includes military training, arms, and surveillance equipment, and joint counter-terrorism efforts.
- The situation may impact a $3 billion railways contract with Turkish firm Yapi Merkezi and the presence of Turkish nationals in Uganda.
